With B.C. staying on Pacific Time year-round, many mornings this fall and winter will still be dark when students leave for school.

With this in mind, Surrey Schools has put together some tips for keeping healthy routines and for travel safety during this season.

This includes some advice from Fraser Health.

Before you leave:

• Keep bedtimes and wake-up times regular and reduce screen use before bed. Morning light can throw off sleep and well-rested students are said to be more alert on the way to school.
• Plan a route that uses sidewalks, marked crossing and bike lanes. Stick to well-lit areas wherever possible.
• Leave a few minutes earlier than usual so nobody has to rush across a street.
• Add some visibility: bright or reflective clothing, reflectors on backpacks and bikes, and a flashlight or bike lights. These can help drivers spot people sooner.

On the way:

• Wear bright and reflective clothing and/or reflectors to make yourself more visible to drivers.
• Cross at marked crosswalks and follow the signals.
• Make eye contact with drivers and wait until cars have come to a complete stop before you step off the curb.
• Keep headphones, earphones, and phones put away so you can hear and see your surroundings.
• If biking: turn on bike lights for the whole ride, front and back.

Behind the wheel:

• Drive slower than usual near schools and keep to school-zone speed limits.
• Make sure your headlights are fully turned on, not just your daytime running lights.
• Expect people where you can’t easily see them such as at intersections, crosswalks, school zones and shared pathways.
• Leave your phone alone until you’ve parked your car.
• Use the school’s drop-off area and follow its procedures.

Look after yourself this season

Surrey Schools mentions that shorter days can affect people’s mood, energy and sleep. That includes children and teens.

Fraser Health suggests getting outside during the daylight, staying active and keeping in touch with friends and family.

Fraser Health also recommends contacting a health care provider if you or your child notice big changes in sleep, energy or moods.

For more tips from Fraser Health go to fraserhealth.ca/setfortheseason.